Tyler Fishlock celebrates birthday, nominated for Pride of Australia awards

AS he celebrates his 11th birthday today, Tyler Fishlock is focusing squarely on "kicking cancer's butt" so he can go camping with his dad.

Happy 11th birthday Tyler

AS he celebrates his 11th birthday today, Tyler Fishlock is focusing squarely on "kicking cancer's butt" so he can go camping with his dad.

Tyler is also celebrating after receiving a well earned early birthday present yesterday, having been nominated as a Child of Courage in the Pride of Australia awards.

Undergoing treatment in the Royal Children's Hospital for his second occurrence of the cancer which claimed both his eyes, Tyler is hoping to be well enough to return home for his party today before another round of chemotherapy next week.

Having seen the impact Tyler's brave face to adversity had on all he has come into contact with, Tyler's father Brad said he was constantly amazed by his son's courage.

"We've had feedback from people on the other side of the country, from overseas even, who have heard Tyler's story and didn't want to go through their own chemotherapy but say he has given them courage to push on," Mr Fishlock said.

In the 102 days since he was diagnosed with his second occurrence of cancer, Tyler has spent 53 days in hospital as a string of infections and complications has impacted on his treatment.

But he has now begun preparing a survival pack for camping - complete with a torch, fishing line, first aid kit and duct tape - so he can escape to the bush for camping as soon as he is well enough.

Pride of Australia nominees will be recognised across 10 categories.

Nominations for the awards can be made until 5pm on Tuesday, July 16 HERE